Imperfect Heart

By: Jeff Holden
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  • Summary

  • Imperfect Heart is a podcast designed for, hosted by and recorded with those affected by or involved with the care and support for those with the birth defect of a Myocardial Bridge. Interviews with healthcare professionals, support professionals and those navigating their way through the often challenging process of diagnosis and treatment are the focus of the content. It’s their stories that are meant to inform, educate and even entertain in an effort to insure hope for the listener that what they are experiencing is real, that they are not alone and that there is hope for relief from the varied symptoms of a Myocardial Bridge. The host, Jeff Holden, has his own story to tell from symptom to diagnosis to treatment thus giving him insight and empathy as well as experience in the process of advocating for the patient. The program also seeks to make the healthcare industry more aware of the real symptoms of Myocardial Bridges with an aim to eliminate the gaslighting that is so prevalent around this defect and directly address the reality that Myocardial Bridges may be responsible for many more deaths from sudden cardiac arrest than previously thought. Early diagnosis and treatment could not only improve but may actually save lives when properly applied. More information can be found on the podcast website, www.myimperfectheart.com.
    © 2023 Imperfect Heart
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Episodes
  • Episode 34: Hereditary Heart Disease and a Cross Continent Cardiac Cure. Mary McDonalds Journey to Greece.

    Episode 34: Hereditary Heart Disease and a Cross Continent Cardiac Cure. Mary McDonalds Journey to Greece.
    Jul 31 2024
    Ever wonder how someone can maintain a healthy lifestyle yet still face severe heart issues? Join me as I unpack Mary McDonald's gripping journey through hereditary heart disease, starting with her struggles with high blood pressure. Despite her best efforts to stay healthy, Mary’s initial disregard for medical advice led to severe complications, including a wake-up call from foot surgery. This episode underscores the crucial lesson of heeding medical guidance when hereditary caardiac conditions are in play. Through a rollercoaster of diagnoses and treatments, Mary’s story takes us deep into the labyrinth of heart disease diagnostics. After facing conflicting advice and even a suggestion to consult a psychiatrist, Mary’s persistence led her to explore treatments at Stanford. Her tale of moderate heart valve regurgitation and a myocardial bridge reveals the challenges of being misunderstood by the medical community and the importance of self-advocacy and finding a supportive medical team. Then, travel with Mary to Greece, where she underwent "unroofing" heart surgery and received exemplary care from Dr. Kofidis and Dr. Patakos at Hygia Hospital. Her detailed account compares the medical care in Greece to that in the U.S., offering insights into her recovery journey, including overcoming severe back pain and managing osteoporosis. Ending on a high note, Mary’s resilience shines through as she shares her marathon ambitions and renewed passion for flying. This episode is a testament to the power of perseverance, optimism, and self-advocacy in the face of the uncertainty of cardiac health challenges. You can find Hygia Health Care in this link: https://www.hygeia.gr/ To learn more about Myocardial Bridges, visit: https://www.myimperfectheart.com/ CHAPTER TIMESTAMPS: (00:00) Myocardial Bridge Discovery and Treatment (09:35) Diagnostic Journey of Heart Conditions (23:22) Medical Care in Greece (26:57) Post-Heart Surgery Pain Management Plan (40:09) Recovery From Heart Surgery and Flying (48:42) Overcoming Situational Depression and Heart Surgery (55:10) Recovery and Positivity in Heart Surgery CHAPTER SUMMARIES: (00:00) Myocardial Bridge Discovery and TreatmentMary McDonald's journey with hereditary heart disease highlights the importance of adhering to medical advice and challenges of managing the condition. (09:35) Diagnostic Journey of Heart ConditionsA patient shares her emotional and physical journey navigating heart disease, including conflicting diagnoses, extensive research, and seeking the right care. (23:22) Medical Care in GreecePersonal account of heart surgery in Greece, guided by international coordinator and skilled medical team, with exemplary care and facilities. (26:57) Post-Heart Surgery Pain Management PlanPersonal account of heart surgery, challenges with osteoporosis, exceptional ICU care, and pain management differences. (40:09) Recovery From Heart Surgery and FlyingResilience, determination, and a positive attitude help overcome challenges, including early discharge, jogging post-operation, and a harrowing pilot experience. (48:42) Overcoming Situational Depression and Heart SurgeryIndividual overcomes situational depression through determination, positive thinking, and support from podcasts and online communities. (55:10) Recovery and Positivity in Heart SurgeryMary's inspiring journey of recovery after wrist surgery, her passion for flying and running, and her unwavering optimism and determination.
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    Less than 1 minute
  • Imperfect Heart Info-pod: Inaugural Myocardial Bridge In-Person Meetup Sept 14, 2024. Connect, Share, Support.

    Imperfect Heart Info-pod: Inaugural Myocardial Bridge In-Person Meetup Sept 14, 2024. Connect, Share, Support.
    Jul 24 2024
    This is pretty cool! I'm using our platform to share a bit of great info in real time as it unfolds. If you subscribe or follow the podcast, you'll get these occasional Imperfect Heart Info-pods to make announcements on things that affect us in some way or another. You'll see them as well on YouTube. Here's what this Info-pod is all about. Imagine the power of sharing your journey with someone who truly gets it. That's the magic we're bringing to life with this first ever Myocardial Bridge Meetup! Scheduled for September 14th, 2024, in downtown Sacramento, California, this event is more than just a gathering—it's a chance for our community to connect, support, and uplift one another. Whether you're navigating the complexities of your condition or celebrating post-surgery milestones, you'll find a safe space to ask candid questions, share your experiences, and forge lasting bonds. I'm also hoping for a virtual discussion with one of doctors we've previously interviewed, adding even more value to our meetup. If you’re within driving distance, downtown Sacramento offers a convenient and accessible location with plenty of nearby accommodations. Remember, space is limited, so register quickly for the benefit of knowing our attendance. For any questions, head to our website (My Imperfect Heart Website) and click the contact tab. Let's make this inaugural Myocardial Bridge Meetup an unforgettable experience for our community, and continue to change the way the medical world views our condition. Cheers to our imperfect hearts! Meet others in similar situations as yourself and have candid conversations about the condition Hear stories from those who have been where you are Hear from spouses and significant others who have experienced a loved on with a bridge Meet others who are active on the Facebook page that may have become trusted sources Thanks and I'm looking forward to meeting you all! Here are all the registration details: Imperfect Heart Coronary Kingdom Meetup
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    3 mins
  • Episode 33: Dr. Danny Ramzy’s Vision for the Future of Robotic Cardiac Surgery and Unroofing Myocardial Bridges.

    Episode 33: Dr. Danny Ramzy’s Vision for the Future of Robotic Cardiac Surgery and Unroofing Myocardial Bridges.
    Jul 11 2024
    Can personal experiences with heart disease shape the future of heart surgery? Join me as I sit down with Dr. Danny Ramzy, a groundbreaking minimally invasive heart surgeon, to unravel his inspiring journey in medicine. Driven by his family's history with heart disease, Dr. Ramzy transitioned from classical training to becoming a pioneer in robotic heart surgery. He recounts his first encounter with robotic techniques during his fellowship and how these innovations have revolutionized procedures like unroofing myocardial bridges, offering patients faster recoveries with minimal life disruption. What makes robotic surgery a game-changer in treating myocardial bridges? The conversation shines a spotlight on the meticulous techniques Dr. Ramsey employs to free arteries from muscle encasement and the complexities involved with smaller arteries. We delve into the choice between traditional sternotomy and robotic approaches, underscoring the pivotal role of surgical experience. Dr. Ramsey also introduces us to the latest advancements in robotic surgery, including haptic feedback, which enhances precision and safety, making these procedures more effective than ever. How do we differentiate between benign intramyocardial vessels and pathological myocardial bridges? Our discussion delves into the essential diagnostic protocols and personalized treatments necessary for optimal patient outcomes. Dr. Ramsey clarifies the significant benefits of surgical unroofing for symptomatic patients and highlights the ongoing advancements at McGovern Medical School at the University of Texas Health in Houston. We'll wrap the episode by acknowledging the vibrant myocardial bridge community and Dr. Ramsey's unwavering dedication to improving patient care and outcomes. To reach Dr. Ramzy's office you can call 713-486-6690 and schedule an appointment for a consultation. Episode Highlight Timestamps (03:21 - 05:18) Robot-Assisted Unroofing for Myocardial Bridges (13:10 - 14:06) Endovascular Unroofing of Arteries (18:11 - 21:55) Myocardial Bridge Unroofing Importance (25:44 - 26:48) Global Advancements in Robotic Surgery (28:39 - 29:53) Consultation Process for Robotic Surgery Episode Chapter Summaries (00:00) Minimally Invasive Heart Surgery Innovations. Dr. Ramzy's journey to becoming a minimally invasive heart surgeon, influenced by family experiences and technology, and his use of robotics for unroofing myocardial bridges. (12:11) Robotic vs. Minimally Invasive Surgery. Unroofing myocardial bridges in LAD artery, considering surgical approach and advancements in robotic surgery for precision and safety. (18:35) Advancements in Robotic Heart Surgery. Myocardial bridges are complex and often misunderstood, but surgical unroofing can benefit symptomatic patients. (29:49) Sharing Stories of Myocardial Bridge. Facebook group supports patients with myocardial bridge, emphasizing accurate diagnosis and ongoing efforts to understand and treat the condition.
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    Less than 1 minute
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